Flanders Fish Market

A Family Success Story

Back in 1983, Paul and Donna Formica were driving down Chesterfield Road and Paul pointed out a spot that he felt would make a perfect fish market. With Donna pregnant with their first child and $41 to their name, they opened Flanders Fish Market. Thirty plus years and four children later, Flanders is a thriving market, restaurant, and catering business.

Since the opening of the marketplace, Paul and his late wife Donna have watched their family and business grow. Starting as just a simple fish market, and growing into a restaurant has brought this landmark unexpected great success. Paul was recently elected State Senator for the 20th district, letting the next generation operate the family business.

They drive their trucks from East Lyme, Connecticut to Boston fish pier, bringing the freshest fish possible back to the store every single day. Everything from lobster to flounder can be found in the glass fish case as you walk into Flanders. Pop in for “Cappy Hour” and get half prices appetizers with hand crafted cocktails or ice cold beer drafts.

Flanders also offers the first only concept called “Demo Dining” where the chef will choose an appetizer and main course and then prepare them in the special demonstration kitchen, where guests can sit and watch. It is an engaging evening, and the chef is more than happy to talk about the dish, preparations styles and many other things with each guest.

Perhaps you would like to book a reservation for their Captain’s Tables, where the chef will personally prepare a five course gourmet meal for you and your guests. Seated around the demonstration kitchen, you can watch and discuss each course with the chef, having a truly delightful culinary experience.

With custom-made trailers, Flanders is able to bring their kitchen to you for your special events. Whether you want to book a traditional New England Clam Bake or a sit down catered affair, catering manager Devon Sullivan will be happy to design a meal that will impress all your guests.

In the fish market, you can pick up all kinds of things besides fresh fish, like Cappy’s Seafood Rub or a Flanders Fish Market apron to wear while you make dinner. They also offer a collection of recipes from Flanders which is a favorite for anyone who has enjoyed a meal there.

Whether you are interested in the Demo Kitchen, dining on the outdoor patio, or picking up fresh fish to prepare for dinner tonight, you definitely need to check out Flanders Fish Market. Located at 22 Chesterfield Road in East Lyme, CT and you can see their menu over at www.flandersfish.com.

by L.A. DiNardi